Watch State Fair

State Fair is a 1962 musical film adaptation of the 1945 Rodgers and Hammerstein Broadway musical of the same name. Directed by José Ferrer and featuring an ensemble cast of talented actors including Pat Boone, Bobby Darin, and Pamela Tiffin, it is a delightful and upbeat movie that captures the essence of the classic American state fair experience.

The story focuses on the Frake family, who are headed to the Iowa State Fair. Abel Frake (Tommy Nolan) is determined to win a blue ribbon for his prized hog, while his wife Melissa (Alice Faye) has her eyes set on the baking competition. Meanwhile, their son Wayne (Pat Boone) is a twentysomething singer who dreams of making it big in Nashville, and their daughter Margy (Pamela Tiffin) is a young woman eager to start a new chapter in her life.

The film follows the family as they journey to the fairgrounds and subsequently get caught up in the festivities. There are various subplots throughout the movie, including Wayne's romance with an aspiring singer named Emily (Ann-Margret) and Margy's relationship with a newspaper reporter named Pat (Bobby Darin). But what ties the film together is its lighthearted, feel-good vibe that celebrates the joys of Midwestern life.

One of the highlights of the movie is its catchy musical numbers. The songs, written by Rodgers and Hammerstein, are catchy and upbeat, displaying the duo's signature mix of comedy and heart. Pat Boone in particular shines as a singer and performer, delivering standout performances of songs like "All I Owe Ioway" and "That's For Me". Bobby Darin also shows off his vocal chops with a soulful rendition of "It Might As Well Be Spring," while Pamela Tiffin charms with her sweet vocals on "It's A Grand Night For Singing."

Aside from the music, the film's vibrant colors, elaborate sets, and authentic portrayal of rural America are also top-notch. Director José Ferrer captures the essence of the state fair atmosphere, with scenes of carnival rides, vendors hawking their wares, and farmers showing off their livestock. The movie also features plenty of comedic moments, such as when Abel's hog runs rampant through the fairgrounds or when Wayne tries to impress Emily by singing in front of a crowd.

At its core, State Fair is a movie about family, as well as the pursuit of happiness and the fulfillment of dreams. Each member of the Frake family is seeking something different, but ultimately discovers that true happiness can be found in the simple pleasures of life. Margy learns that sometimes the most unexpected love can be the most fulfilling, while Wayne realizes that success doesn't always come from pursuing fame and fortune.

Overall, State Fair is a charming and nostalgic film that captures the spirit of American heartland. Its blend of catchy tunes, colorful visual design, and lighthearted humor make it a joy to watch, and its themes of love, family, and self-discovery make it a timeless classic. Whether you're a fan of classic musicals or simply in the mood for a cheerful, feel-good flick, State Fair is definitely worth a watch.

State Fair is a 1962 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 58 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.9.